Brilliant Root binds England together

May 25, 2013

England chose to bat first under sunny weather but lost Nick Compton early•Getty Images

Tim Southee was impressive with his swing•Getty Images

Neil Wagner then struck immediately with the wicket of Trott•Getty Images

Brendon McCullum takes the edge to remove Ian Bell off Kane Williamson•Getty Images

Jonny Bairstow took his time in the limelight with a half-century•PA Photos

Root fell to the new ball for 104 to a warm ovation•Getty Images

Alastair Cook made a steady start against New Zealand's seam attack•Associated Press

Jonathan Trott joined Cook to put on 56 for the second wicket•Getty Images

Joe Root, playing his first Test in his home ground, ensured England didn't stumble further•Getty Images

Joe Root drives through the covers...•Getty Images

Joe Root pumps the air as he reaches three figures•Getty Images

However, England lost their way as the opening session ended, losing Cook•Getty Images

Ian Bell gave Root company after lunch and the pair steadied England•Getty Images

...and then brings out the reverse sweep•Getty Images

White rose: Joe Root gets congratulated by his Yorkshire team-mates Jonny Bairstow•PA Photos